Risks

The type and severity of side effects you have with external beam radiation for prostate cancer may depend on the dose and on the amount of healthy tissue that's exposed to the radiation. Most side effects are temporary, can be controlled and generally improve over time once treatment has ended.

Newer technologies, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), deliver the highest dose of radiation to the target while sparing surrounding healthy tissue. This helps to minimize side effects of external beam radiation treatment.

Potential side effects of external beam radiation therapy for prostate cancer may include:

Frequent urination

Difficult or painful urination

Blood in the urine

Urinary leakage

Abdominal cramping

Diarrhea

Painful bowel movements

Rectal bleeding

Rectal leaking

Fatigue

Sexual dysfunction, including diminished erectile function or decrease in the volume of semen

Skin reactions (similar to a sunburn)

Secondary cancers in the region of the radiation

Most of the side effects are mild and tolerable. Some side effects may develop months to years later. Serious late side effects are uncommon. Ask your doctor about potential side effects, both short and long term, that may occur during and after your treatment.

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